Research data management in Universities in Kenya: Critical analysis of the legal and policy frameworks

Even though universities generate a large amount of research data, many still face significant challenges in managing it due to inadequate legal and policy frameworks. This study aimed to critically analyse the legal and policy frameworks governing RDM in Kenyan universities to determine the maturity level using the Capability Maturity Model and recommend actions to optimise data management. A qualitative approach was adopted by interviewing heads of libraries and research units. Additionally, a bibliographic analysis of selected legal instruments at the national level and institutional research-affiliated policies was conducted. The review revealed the absence of a single national legal framework for RDM; instead, inadequate multifaceted laws exist. Key laws in the country with implications for data management include The Constitution of Kenya (2010), the Kenya Data Protection Act (2019), The Science, Technology, and Innovation Act (2013), and the Commission for University Act (2012). None of the six studied universities had implemented an RDM policy at the university level, although one university had completed the development of a stand-alone RDM policy. The study strongly recommends developing and implementing a comprehensive RDM legal framework at the national level and RDM policies at the university level to address this gap.